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How to Get a Google Business Profile

A Google Business Profile (GBP) helps your business appear in Google Search and Google Maps when people look for services like yours. It’s one of the most important tools for local visibility — and it’s free.

Below is a step-by-step guide to creating and verifying your profile.

What Is a Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile is the listing that appears when someone searches for your business name or services on Google.

It can show:

  • Your business name and location

  • Phone number and website

  • Hours of operation

  • Photos

  • Customer reviews

  • Directions on Google Maps

If your business serves a local area, having a verified profile is essential.


Step 1: Check If Your Business Already Exists

Before creating a new profile, make sure Google doesn’t already have one.

  1. Go to google.com/business

  2. Sign in with a Google account

  3. Search for your business name

If your business appears:

  • You may be able to claim it

  • Or request access if someone else manages it

If it doesn’t appear, you can create a new profile.


Step 2: Create Your Google Business Profile

  1. Visit  google.com/business

  2. Click “Manage now”

  3. Enter your business name

  4. Choose the most accurate business category

  5. Add your location or service area

  6. Enter your contact details (phone, website)

Be accurate — your information should match what’s on your website and other listings.


Step 3: Verify Your Business

Google requires verification to confirm you’re a legitimate business.

Verification methods may include:

  • Postcard mailed to your business address

  • Phone call or text

  • Email

  • Video verification (showing your location or equipment)

Verification usually takes a few days, depending on the method.


Step 4: Complete Your Profile

Once verified, finish setting up your profile:

  • Add business hours

  • Upload photos (logo, storefront, team, or work)

  • Write a clear business description

  • Set service areas if you don’t have a physical storefront

A complete profile performs better in search results.


Step 5: Start Collecting Reviews

Reviews play a major role in visibility and trust.

Once your profile is live:

  • Share your Google review link with customers

  • Ask for feedback after completed visits, appointments, or projects

  • Respond to reviews to show engagement

This is where tools like Review Web can help simplify the process.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Creating duplicate listings

  • Using a PO Box or virtual office incorrectly

  • Keyword stuffing your business name

  • Ignoring verification requests

  • Leaving your profile incomplete

These issues can delay approval or limit visibility.


Need Help Managing Reviews?

While Google Business Profile setup is free, managing reviews consistently can be time-consuming.

Review Web helps businesses:

  • Collect Google reviews more easily

  • Share review links and QR codes

  • Monitor feedback in one place

  • Respond faster and more consistently

You can manage your Google presence manually — or use tools designed to make it easier.


Summary

  • A Google Business Profile is essential for local visibility

  • Setup is free and only takes a few steps

  • Verification is required before your profile goes live

  • Reviews play a major role in ranking and trust

If you don’t have a Google Business Profile yet, getting started today is one of the best things you can do for your business.

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